The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on traditional rulers across Nigeria to strengthen their involvement in the fight against drug abuse and illicit drug cultivation, warning that the growing menace requires collective efforts from all sectors of society.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), made the appeal during a visit to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, in Benin City, Edo State.
Marwa described drug abuse as one of the major social challenges confronting the country, disclosing that more than 15 million Nigerians are involved in drug abuse, a figure he said was about three times the global average.
He stressed that the agency could not tackle the problem alone, noting that traditional institutions, religious organisations, civil society groups, government and the media must work together to address the situation.
According to him, traditional rulers have an important role to play because of their influence and respect within their communities, particularly in discouraging young people from engaging in drug abuse and illicit activities.
Marwa also disclosed that the agency had introduced an alternative development programme aimed at persuading cannabis farmers to abandon illicit cultivation and embrace legitimate agricultural activities.
He explained that the initiative would encourage farmers to cultivate crops such as cassava, yam and maize instead of cannabis, while providing support to help them establish sustainable livelihoods.
The NDLEA chairman revealed that cannabis accounted for about 75 per cent of the 16 million kilogrammes of assorted illicit substances seized nationwide by the agency over the last six years.
He identified Edo State as one of the states where cannabis cultivation takes place, adding that the alternative development programme was designed to provide farmers with lawful economic opportunities.
Marwa further disclosed that the agency arrested more than 1,200 suspected drug traffickers and seized over 30 tonnes of illicit substances in Edo State in 2025.
He urged the Oba of Benin to continue supporting the agency’s efforts and encourage communities across the kingdom to reject drug abuse, trafficking and illicit cultivation.
In his response, Oba Ewuare II commended the NDLEA for its efforts in combating drug-related activities and pledged to forward suggestions to the agency on ways to strengthen its operations.
The monarch’s support, according to the agency, forms part of efforts to deepen community participation in the national campaign against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

